Mma Makutsi looked at Mma Ramotswe and thought: This is the best woman in Botswana.

‘Mma Ramotswe,’ she said, ‘half of nothing is better than nothing of nothing. And even if we made a big loss, I would be honoured to share that loss with you.’ She paused. ‘You are a very kind lady, Mma. I have always known that.’

Mma Ramotswe was quiet for a moment, but then she said, ‘Well, Mma Makutsi, I think that’s settled.’

They sat in silence. Nothing further needed to be said. As night embraced Botswana, the red glow in the sky faded, yet still seemed to be there, somehow, well after it had gone.